Child Custody & Conseratorship in Texas
Few legal matters carry more weight than decisions about your children. Whether you are going through a divorce, establishing paternity, or seeking to modify an existing custody arrangement, the outcome will shape your family's future. Attorney Ryan Putz brings years of family law experience — including high-conflict custody disputes — to help you fight for what matters most.
Understanding Texas Conservatorship
Texas uses the term 'conservatorship' rather than 'custody.' There are two components courts address:
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Sole Managing Conservatorship — one parent has the exclusive right to make major decisions about the child's life, including education, healthcare, and religious upbringing.
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Joint Managing Conservatorship — both parents share decision-making rights. This is the presumption under Texas law unless evidence shows it would not be in the child's best interest.
Possession and Access (Visitation)
Separate from conservatorship, Texas courts also establish a possession schedule — when each parent has physical time with the child. The Standard Possession Order (SPO) is the default schedule for parents living within 100 miles of each other, but courts can and do deviate from it based on the child's needs, the parents' work schedules, and other circumstances.
What Courts Consider
Texas courts base all custody decisions on the 'best interest of the child' standard. Factors include:
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The child's physical and emotional needs
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Each parent's ability to provide a stable home environment
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The child's relationship with siblings and extended family
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Each parent's willingness to support the other's relationship with the child
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Any history of domestic violence, substance abuse, or neglect
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The child's own preferences, depending on age and maturity
High-Conflict Custody Disputes
When parents cannot agree, custody battles can become contentious and emotionally exhausting. Attorney Ryan Putz has significant trial experience — including both bench and jury trials — and is prepared to advocate aggressively on your behalf when settlement is not possible. He is also skilled at navigating parental alienation claims, false allegations, and complex international matters.
Modifications
Life changes. If there has been a material and substantial change in circumstances since your last order — such as a job relocation, remarriage, or a change in the child's needs — you may be able to seek a modification of the existing custody or possession order.
Ready to Speak with a Texas Child Custody Attorney?
If you are facing a child custody matter in Texas, the Law Office of Ryan Putz is here to help. Contact us today to schedule a confidential consultation and take the first step toward protecting your family and your future.